Diabetes Nutritionists and Dietitians in 97203

Photo of Ariela Nielson - Nielson Nutrition & Diabetes Care, LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDCES, LD, CD
Nielson Nutrition & Diabetes Care, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDCES, LD, CD
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97203
Managing diabetes is a full time job, but what if there was a way to simplify it?
Specializing in diabetes and celiac, I see people struggling to manage blood sugar or wanting to improve health outcomes by better understanding their bodies and how to get the best results with the least effort. As we talk through recommendations, we often experiment to learn more about your unique body's reaction to insulin, carbs, stress and activity.
Managing diabetes is a full time job, but what if there was a way to simplify it?
Specializing in diabetes and celiac, I see people struggling to manage blood sugar or wanting to improve health outcomes by better understanding their bodies and how to get the best results with the least effort. As we talk through recommendations, we often experiment to learn more about your unique body's reaction to insulin, carbs, stress and activity.
(971) 298-7784 View (971) 298-7784
Photo of Brayden Goldblatt, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Brayden Goldblatt
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Brayden’s specialties include weight management, weight loss/gain, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, heart-healthy nutrition therapy, oncology, enteral nutrition, as well as intuitive eating, disordered eating, Health at Every Size (HAES), mindful eating, and general wellness.
Brayden is a registered dietitian with a passion for health and wellness. She supports clients through realistic, sustainable lifestyle changes using a compassionate, inclusive, and client-centered approach. Brayden blends evidence-based nutrition with practical habits to help clients feel their best in the long term. She creates a safe, non-judgmental space for exploring goals and challenges, offering personalized counseling and education to build lasting, meaningful change.
Brayden’s specialties include weight management, weight loss/gain, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, heart-healthy nutrition therapy, oncology, enteral nutrition, as well as intuitive eating, disordered eating, Health at Every Size (HAES), mindful eating, and general wellness.
Brayden is a registered dietitian with a passion for health and wellness. She supports clients through realistic, sustainable lifestyle changes using a compassionate, inclusive, and client-centered approach. Brayden blends evidence-based nutrition with practical habits to help clients feel their best in the long term. She creates a safe, non-judgmental space for exploring goals and challenges, offering personalized counseling and education to build lasting, meaningful change.
(971) 365-3205 View (971) 365-3205
Photo of Alexa Morello, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, MS, LDN
Alexa Morello
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, MS, LDN
Online Only
My ideal clients are individuals seeking support for women’s health, gut health, metabolic wellness, and long-term health. They often feel frustrated by ongoing symptoms, inconsistent results, or advice that doesn’t fit their lifestyle. I take a whole-person approach, looking at nutrition, habits, stress, and routines to understand the root of concerns. Together, we build personalized, realistic strategies that support symptom relief and long-term wellness, helping clients feel confident, supported, and consistent in their health journey.
My ideal clients are individuals seeking support for women’s health, gut health, metabolic wellness, and long-term health. They often feel frustrated by ongoing symptoms, inconsistent results, or advice that doesn’t fit their lifestyle. I take a whole-person approach, looking at nutrition, habits, stress, and routines to understand the root of concerns. Together, we build personalized, realistic strategies that support symptom relief and long-term wellness, helping clients feel confident, supported, and consistent in their health journey.
(708) 991-5413 View (708) 991-5413
Photo of Megan Byrd, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Megan Byrd
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
She has experience in PCOS, infertility, prenatal/postpartum nutrition, anti-inflammatory diets, picky eating in children, blood pressure and cholesterol management, cardiovascular health, weight management, diabetes, food sensitivities, vegan/vegetarian diets, and overall wellness.
Megan provides personalized, evidence-based nutrition counseling for PCOS, infertility, prenatal/postpartum nutrition, anti-inflammatory diets, picky eating, blood pressure, cholesterol, cardiovascular health, weight management, diabetes, food sensitivities, vegan/vegetarian diets, and overall wellness.
She has experience in PCOS, infertility, prenatal/postpartum nutrition, anti-inflammatory diets, picky eating in children, blood pressure and cholesterol management, cardiovascular health, weight management, diabetes, food sensitivities, vegan/vegetarian diets, and overall wellness.
Megan provides personalized, evidence-based nutrition counseling for PCOS, infertility, prenatal/postpartum nutrition, anti-inflammatory diets, picky eating, blood pressure, cholesterol, cardiovascular health, weight management, diabetes, food sensitivities, vegan/vegetarian diets, and overall wellness.
(346) 572-9634 View (346) 572-9634
Photo of Ash Linxwiler, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, LD
Ash Linxwiler
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, LD
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience treating patients with all manner of disease states including diabetes, digestive disorders, heart disease, and kidney disease.
You deserve to feel seen. You deserve equitable care. You deserve freedom in your relationship with food. I strive to provide a counseling environment that offers affirming care, a sense of belonging, and the tools you need to feel supported on your journey with food and your body.
I have experience treating patients with all manner of disease states including diabetes, digestive disorders, heart disease, and kidney disease.
You deserve to feel seen. You deserve equitable care. You deserve freedom in your relationship with food. I strive to provide a counseling environment that offers affirming care, a sense of belonging, and the tools you need to feel supported on your journey with food and your body.
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More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Kristen Nyampong, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Kristen Nyampong
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Serves Area
I also work with individuals with diabetes and prediabetes, focusing on improving A1C through a non-restrictive approach.
My name is Kristen Nyampong, and I’m a Registered Dietitian based in the Dallas–Fort Worth area. I take a person-centered, trauma-informed, and weight-inclusive approach to care. I’m especially passionate about working with individuals in the BIPOC community and those who are vegan, vegetarian, or plant-forward.
I also work with individuals with diabetes and prediabetes, focusing on improving A1C through a non-restrictive approach.
My name is Kristen Nyampong, and I’m a Registered Dietitian based in the Dallas–Fort Worth area. I take a person-centered, trauma-informed, and weight-inclusive approach to care. I’m especially passionate about working with individuals in the BIPOC community and those who are vegan, vegetarian, or plant-forward.
(331) 259-8859 View (331) 259-8859
Photo of Demi Evrigenis, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Demi Evrigenis
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97230
Specializing in aiding those with diabetes, gut health issues, PCOS, as well as renal and thyroid issues using a holistic approach.
Specialities include: Type 1 Diabetes, Pre- Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Digestive Issues, PCOS, General Lifestyle and Nutrition, Mindful Eating, High Cholesterol, Weight Management, Heart Health, and High Blood Pressure.
Specializing in aiding those with diabetes, gut health issues, PCOS, as well as renal and thyroid issues using a holistic approach.
Specialities include: Type 1 Diabetes, Pre- Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Digestive Issues, PCOS, General Lifestyle and Nutrition, Mindful Eating, High Cholesterol, Weight Management, Heart Health, and High Blood Pressure.
(312) 374-5399 View (312) 374-5399
Photo of Iris Briand, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Iris Briand
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Serves Area
Custom nutrition coaching can help with: Encouraging Weight Balance, Managing Diabetes, Improving Digestion, Equalizing Cholesterol, and Lowering Blood Pressure.
Sol Food Nutrition, LLC is your home for nutritional support. The company is owned by Iris Briand, RDN, LD. Ms. Briand provides Custom Nutrition Coaching and Presentations that help lead people to adopt a healthier lifestyle by preparing simple, healthy & delicious meals.
Custom nutrition coaching can help with: Encouraging Weight Balance, Managing Diabetes, Improving Digestion, Equalizing Cholesterol, and Lowering Blood Pressure.
Sol Food Nutrition, LLC is your home for nutritional support. The company is owned by Iris Briand, RDN, LD. Ms. Briand provides Custom Nutrition Coaching and Presentations that help lead people to adopt a healthier lifestyle by preparing simple, healthy & delicious meals.
(541) 625-1529 View (541) 625-1529
Photo of Chelsea Saltzman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Chelsea Saltzman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212
Chelsea specializes in women’s health, weight management, prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, GLP-1 medications, general nutrition, meal planning, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, sports performance/nutrition, mindful/intuitive eating, disordered eating, and binge-eating disorder.
My ideal client can be of any age or background. They may be seeking weight loss, better performance, improved labs, muscle gain, or a healthier relationship with food. What matters most is that they’re open to problem-solving—willing to examine habits with curiosity, apply evidence practically, and use accountability to measure progress. They understand that change requires consistency, reflection, and course correction; if they’re not fully ready, they’re willing to explore what’s in the way.
Chelsea specializes in women’s health, weight management, prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, GLP-1 medications, general nutrition, meal planning, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, sports performance/nutrition, mindful/intuitive eating, disordered eating, and binge-eating disorder.
My ideal client can be of any age or background. They may be seeking weight loss, better performance, improved labs, muscle gain, or a healthier relationship with food. What matters most is that they’re open to problem-solving—willing to examine habits with curiosity, apply evidence practically, and use accountability to measure progress. They understand that change requires consistency, reflection, and course correction; if they’re not fully ready, they’re willing to explore what’s in the way.
(312) 374-5399 View (312) 374-5399
Photo of Caitlin Sloane - Nutrition Studio, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD, CIEC
Nutrition Studio
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD, CIEC
Portland, OR 97232
Our specialties include disordered eating, intuitive eating, digestive health (IBD, SIBO, IBS), type 1 and type 2 diabetes, women's health, PCOS, autoimmune conditions, complex health issues, and more!
We specialize in personalized nutrition counseling, and immersive nutrition education. We use an evidence based approach and offer a judgement free space to explore your intrinsic relationship to food and body. We work from a foundation of Weight Neutrality and Functional and Integrative Nutrition to treat the whole person and identify root causes.
Our specialties include disordered eating, intuitive eating, digestive health (IBD, SIBO, IBS), type 1 and type 2 diabetes, women's health, PCOS, autoimmune conditions, complex health issues, and more!
We specialize in personalized nutrition counseling, and immersive nutrition education. We use an evidence based approach and offer a judgement free space to explore your intrinsic relationship to food and body. We work from a foundation of Weight Neutrality and Functional and Integrative Nutrition to treat the whole person and identify root causes.
(503) 213-4510 View (503) 213-4510
Photo of Cindy Wu, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Cindy Wu
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97236
Cindy is a Registered Dietitian with a background in individualized client care and 1:1 nutrition counseling. Cindy has developed rapport with clients from a variety of diagnoses, with a specialization in eating disorders. Cindy's primary goal is to help clients foster a strong and sustainable relationship with food that ultimately meets long-term goals. Cindy is a Registered Dietitian who provides an empathetic, trauma-informed, Health-At-Every-Size-informed, and weight-inclusive approach to care. Ensuring that clients feel supported and ready to make changes towards their nutritional goals is her main priority.
Cindy is a Registered Dietitian with a background in individualized client care and 1:1 nutrition counseling. Cindy has developed rapport with clients from a variety of diagnoses, with a specialization in eating disorders. Cindy's primary goal is to help clients foster a strong and sustainable relationship with food that ultimately meets long-term goals. Cindy is a Registered Dietitian who provides an empathetic, trauma-informed, Health-At-Every-Size-informed, and weight-inclusive approach to care. Ensuring that clients feel supported and ready to make changes towards their nutritional goals is her main priority.
(312) 374-5399 View (312) 374-5399
Photo of Ruth Thompson Murillo, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
Ruth Thompson Murillo
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Specialties include bariatrics, weight management, binge eating, prediabetes, diabetes, mindful eating, intuitive eating, prenatal and postnatal nutrition, health and wellness, GI issues, IBS/IBD, heart health, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, fatty liver disease, picky eating, vegan/vegetarian diets, and PCOS.
I am a registered dietitian with over 13 years of experience helping individuals make lifestyle changes to improve their health and achieve their goals. I practice with empathy and understanding in a nonjudgmental environment where you can truly be yourself and trust that you will be fully supported.
Specialties include bariatrics, weight management, binge eating, prediabetes, diabetes, mindful eating, intuitive eating, prenatal and postnatal nutrition, health and wellness, GI issues, IBS/IBD, heart health, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, fatty liver disease, picky eating, vegan/vegetarian diets, and PCOS.
I am a registered dietitian with over 13 years of experience helping individuals make lifestyle changes to improve their health and achieve their goals. I practice with empathy and understanding in a nonjudgmental environment where you can truly be yourself and trust that you will be fully supported.
(312) 374-5399 View (312) 374-5399
Photo of Katie Whitson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Katie Whitson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specializes in Disordered Eating and Eating disorders, HAES, Intuitive Eating, Sports Nutrition, General Health/Wellness, Cardiovascular Health, Hormone challenges/imbalances, and Diabetes care.
Katie Whitson is a dedicated HAEs-aligned Registered Dietitian with a deep passion for fostering healthy, sustainable relationships with food and movement. She embraces a non-diet approach, focusing on the connection between nutrition and mental health. Katie employs evidence-based strategies to meet patients where they are in their care, empowering them through active involvement and personalized support. Her mission is to inspire lifelong, transformative changes by blending consistency, structure and creativity in every aspect of her practice.
Specializes in Disordered Eating and Eating disorders, HAES, Intuitive Eating, Sports Nutrition, General Health/Wellness, Cardiovascular Health, Hormone challenges/imbalances, and Diabetes care.
Katie Whitson is a dedicated HAEs-aligned Registered Dietitian with a deep passion for fostering healthy, sustainable relationships with food and movement. She embraces a non-diet approach, focusing on the connection between nutrition and mental health. Katie employs evidence-based strategies to meet patients where they are in their care, empowering them through active involvement and personalized support. Her mission is to inspire lifelong, transformative changes by blending consistency, structure and creativity in every aspect of her practice.
(551) 288-6517 View (551) 288-6517
Photo of Marissa Weissbuch, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Marissa Weissbuch
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Marissa specializes in weight management, disordered eating, behavior modification, gut health, anti-inflammatory meal planning, GI disorders, food sensitivities, autoimmune disorders, thyroid disorders, PCOS, type 2 diabetes, prediabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, kidney disease, liver disease, and malnutrition or unintentional weight loss.
Marissa, a dedicated Registered Dietitian, is passionate about helping others heal their relationship with food. Inspired by her own health journey, she brings empathy, understanding, and practical tools to guide clients in quieting “food noise” and finding sustainable balance. With a whole-person, individualized approach, she simplifies nutrition, making structure and routine attainable. Rejecting diet culture, she empowers clients to nourish their bodies, supporting digestion, metabolism, mental health, skin, and hormones.
Marissa specializes in weight management, disordered eating, behavior modification, gut health, anti-inflammatory meal planning, GI disorders, food sensitivities, autoimmune disorders, thyroid disorders, PCOS, type 2 diabetes, prediabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, kidney disease, liver disease, and malnutrition or unintentional weight loss.
Marissa, a dedicated Registered Dietitian, is passionate about helping others heal their relationship with food. Inspired by her own health journey, she brings empathy, understanding, and practical tools to guide clients in quieting “food noise” and finding sustainable balance. With a whole-person, individualized approach, she simplifies nutrition, making structure and routine attainable. Rejecting diet culture, she empowers clients to nourish their bodies, supporting digestion, metabolism, mental health, skin, and hormones.
(213) 263-4843 View (213) 263-4843
Photo of Ashlee Hancock, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Ashlee Hancock
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialties: Eating disorders and disordered eating, intuitive eating, weight management, general nutrition, women’s health and wellness, Type II diabetes, and fostering a positive relationship with food and self in a safe, supportive environment.
Ashlee is a registered dietitian with a passion for helping clients build healthier lives through nutrition. She chose dietetics to support individuals in creating sustainable habits while feeling guided and supported throughout their journey. With both personal and professional experience in eating disorder recovery, this population is especially close to her heart. Ashlee is dedicated to helping clients develop a positive relationship with food and their bodies using compassion, evidence-based care, and lived experience.
Specialties: Eating disorders and disordered eating, intuitive eating, weight management, general nutrition, women’s health and wellness, Type II diabetes, and fostering a positive relationship with food and self in a safe, supportive environment.
Ashlee is a registered dietitian with a passion for helping clients build healthier lives through nutrition. She chose dietetics to support individuals in creating sustainable habits while feeling guided and supported throughout their journey. With both personal and professional experience in eating disorder recovery, this population is especially close to her heart. Ashlee is dedicated to helping clients develop a positive relationship with food and their bodies using compassion, evidence-based care, and lived experience.
(515) 375-7850 View (515) 375-7850
Photo of Nicole Buchanan, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Nicole Buchanan
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
These clients may be managing, or hoping to prevent, chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or obesity.
Nicole has significant experience managing Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, enteral and parenteral nutrition, oncology, hyperlipidemia, weight management, mindful eating, intuitive eating, malnutrition, and hyperemesis gravidarum.
These clients may be managing, or hoping to prevent, chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or obesity.
Nicole has significant experience managing Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, enteral and parenteral nutrition, oncology, hyperlipidemia, weight management, mindful eating, intuitive eating, malnutrition, and hyperemesis gravidarum.
(659) 247-2042 View (659) 247-2042
Photo of Mia O'Brien-Combs, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN
Mia O'Brien-Combs
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
I've worked at various levels of care supporting clients with eating disorders, disordered eating, diabetes, pregnancy, and chronic disease prevention and management.
Hi! I'm Mia (she/her). I’m a Registered Dietitian dedicated to providing culturally centered, accessible, and compassionate nutrition care. I am committed to providing HAES-aligned evidence based care that also honors and celebrates your lived experience. I utilize intuitive eating principles and motivational interviewing with an “all foods fit” and gentle nutrition approach.I will work with you from a place of curiosity and together we will develop tools, skills, and knowledge to better understand and nourish your body while working towards your health goals.
I've worked at various levels of care supporting clients with eating disorders, disordered eating, diabetes, pregnancy, and chronic disease prevention and management.
Hi! I'm Mia (she/her). I’m a Registered Dietitian dedicated to providing culturally centered, accessible, and compassionate nutrition care. I am committed to providing HAES-aligned evidence based care that also honors and celebrates your lived experience. I utilize intuitive eating principles and motivational interviewing with an “all foods fit” and gentle nutrition approach.I will work with you from a place of curiosity and together we will develop tools, skills, and knowledge to better understand and nourish your body while working towards your health goals.
(904) 601-1243 View (904) 601-1243
Photo of Kaitlin Mueller - Wholesome Health, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CD, CDCES
Wholesome Health
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CD, CDCES
Portland, OR 97219
I love helping my clients achieve their ideal weight and manage any chronic health conditions. Nutrition is not one-size-fits-all, so I really spend the time getting to know my clients and offer a personalized plan that will work for you. If going in one direction doesn't work for you, we will regroup and try something else until we find a way to help you live your best possible life while still enjoying what you eat. I also offer meal planning services, complete with grocery lists and recipes!
I love helping my clients achieve their ideal weight and manage any chronic health conditions. Nutrition is not one-size-fits-all, so I really spend the time getting to know my clients and offer a personalized plan that will work for you. If going in one direction doesn't work for you, we will regroup and try something else until we find a way to help you live your best possible life while still enjoying what you eat. I also offer meal planning services, complete with grocery lists and recipes!
(971) 260-4461 View (971) 260-4461
Photo of Elise Vega, Nutritionist/Dietitian, PSM, RDN, LDN
Elise Vega
Nutritionist/Dietitian, PSM, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialities include: Weight Management, Sports Nutrition, PCOS, General Lifestyle and Nutrition, Mindful Eating, Intuitive Eating, High Cholesterol, Heart Health, High Blood Pressure, Weight Gain, Anti-Inflammatory, Pre- Diabetes, and Type 2 Diabetes.
Elise is a dietitian who focuses on using realistic approaches to help you improve your health through nutrition, exercise, and other lifestyle practices. Her approach to nutrition is holistic and client centered. She takes the time to fully understand your unique lifestyle, preferences, and challenges to create a realistic nutrition plan together as a team. Elise believes in the power of using high quality nutrient dense foods to support all aspects of your health and wellbeing.
Specialities include: Weight Management, Sports Nutrition, PCOS, General Lifestyle and Nutrition, Mindful Eating, Intuitive Eating, High Cholesterol, Heart Health, High Blood Pressure, Weight Gain, Anti-Inflammatory, Pre- Diabetes, and Type 2 Diabetes.
Elise is a dietitian who focuses on using realistic approaches to help you improve your health through nutrition, exercise, and other lifestyle practices. Her approach to nutrition is holistic and client centered. She takes the time to fully understand your unique lifestyle, preferences, and challenges to create a realistic nutrition plan together as a team. Elise believes in the power of using high quality nutrient dense foods to support all aspects of your health and wellbeing.
(321) 468-9298 View (321) 468-9298
Photo of Barbara Heerkens, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LD
Barbara Heerkens
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LD
5 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222
Ideal clients are individuals who spend a significant amount of time worrying about their body, weight, and food choices, often feeling trapped in a cycle of restriction, guilt, and frustration. They may believe they'll never achieve their health goals. These clients are ready to explore the diet cycle, challenge misinformation, and develop mindfulness around their thoughts on food, weight, and health. This process helps quiet the constant “food noise” in their minds and fosters greater self-compassion, freedom, and peace with food.
Ideal clients are individuals who spend a significant amount of time worrying about their body, weight, and food choices, often feeling trapped in a cycle of restriction, guilt, and frustration. They may believe they'll never achieve their health goals. These clients are ready to explore the diet cycle, challenge misinformation, and develop mindfulness around their thoughts on food, weight, and health. This process helps quiet the constant “food noise” in their minds and fosters greater self-compassion, freedom, and peace with food.
(785) 377-5964 View (785) 377-5964
Diabetes Nutritionists and Dietitians
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a metabolic condition characterized by excessively high blood sugar levels due to insufficient insulin. Insulin is a hormone essential for reducing blood sugar by enabling cells to absorb glucose from the bloodstream. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin due to an inflammatory process affecting insulin-producing cells. In contrast, type 2 diabetes is an acquired condition resulting from a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors, such as obesity and physical inactivity. In type 2 diabetes, the body has an impaired response to insulin, known as "insulin resistance." Even if the pancreas produces a normal amount of insulin, the body stops responding effectively to the hormone, resulting in impaired glucose uptake into cells.

Is type 2 diabetes caused by a bad diet?
Type 2 diabetes is a complex disease influenced by both genetic and lifestyle factors. Research has shown that poor diet is a major contributor, particularly the consumption of sugar-rich foods and refined carbohydrates, which can lead to insulin resistance. An unhealthy diet promoting obesity is another risk factor, as excess weight increases the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. Additional lifestyle factors such as physical inactivity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption also contribute to the disease's onset. These elements collectively underscore the importance of healthy diet choices in preventing type 2 diabetes.

How does nutrition affect diabetes?
Nutrition plays a vital role in managing both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Keeping track of carbohydrate intake is essential for proper insulin dosing and maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. To manage blood sugar effectively, many people with diabetes avoid foods that cause spikes in blood sugar, like sugary snacks and refined carbs such as white bread. Instead, they focus on foods that help stabilize blood sugar, like healthy fats and high-fiber options. Portion control and eating meals at regular times are also important for keeping blood sugar levels steady.

How can a dietitian help someone with diabetes?
Dietitians play a crucial role in assisting individuals with diabetes through lifestyle modification strategies and symptom management. Their expertise is particularly valuable for those recently diagnosed or at risk of developing diabetes. Dietitians provide guidance on tracking carbohydrate intake and appropriately dosing insulin, which is essential for effective diabetes management. For individuals with type 2 diabetes, dietitians can help design weight loss plans and recommend specific dietary modifications, such as increasing the intake of plant-based foods, to promote a healthier lifestyle. In addition, dietitians will often work with other medical professionals on a patient's care team to help the patient navigate symptoms and can thus help the patient integrate input from various professional sources in the management of their condition.